Spring Practice Preview: Maryland

FSU gets a shot at Maryland at home this year after losing to them in a heartbreaking game at Maryland last year. The Noles take on the "frightening" Terrapins on Nov. 17:

Top returner- WR Darrius Heyward-Bey. As a redshirt freshman Heyward-Bey emerged as the Terps' top receiving threat with 45 catches for 694 yards and five touchdowns. He should again be among the conference's top receivers, although his production could dip if the quarterback play suffers.

Player on the verge- LB Alex Wujciak. A three-star prospect in 2006, Wujciak figures to step in and help bolster a run defense that ranked 96th in the nation last year.

Impact newcomer- P Travis Baltz. Although field position is vital, a punter's contribution is often overlooked. Baltz is one of the nation's top high school prospects and averaged 45.6 yards per kick at the U.S. Army Combine. He should at least maintain the productivity of Adam Podlesh, who last year was second in the ACC with a 42.9 punting average. Baltz can kick off and placekick, too.

The big question-Who will emerge as the Terps' starting quarterback? Either Jordan Steffy or Josh Portis will have to fill the void left by Sam Hollenbach. Portis hasn't played since his freshman year at Florida. Steffy completed 12 passes in his freshman season of 2004, redshirted in 2005 and did not complete any of his five passes last season.

Spring practice starting date: March 26

Spring game: April 28